Here is today's Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC) Disability News message.  I hope you have a wonderful day. 

Martha

*Martha K. Gabehart* | "Executive Director
"Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC)
*Kansas Governor Laura Kelly
*900 SW Jackson, Suite 100 | Topeka, Kansas 66612
(785) 296-6525 (direct) | (785) 260-4027 (cell)

[email protected] | www.kcdcinfo.ks.gov [ [link removed] ]

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2024 Michael Lechner Award Request for Nominations

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Michael Lechner Award. The application form is attached. Deadline for applications is Monday, June 3, 2024. 

The Michael Lechner Award is given annually to a Kansan with a disability or a Kansas organization who has effectively advocated for changes in his or her community to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Examples of such changes include improved physical or program access, expansion or enhancement of employment opportunities for people with disabilities, wider inclusion into the community, accessible parking, improved provision of alternative forms of communication, increased access to adequate health care services, and especially powerful legislative advocacy.

The award is named for Michael Lechner, Executive Director of Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC) from 1982 through 1990. His advocacy activities had far-reaching results in improving independent living opportunities for Kansans with disabilities.

Applications may be for an individual or an organization. The nomination must include a description of what the individual or organization has advocated for and what the outcome was for that advocacy during calendar year 2023.  Please submit documentation of that advocacy. It can be an article in the newspaper, organization newsletter, a link to a television or radio news spot, pictures or a supporting letter from a person or an organization affected by the advocacy. 

The application form is below.

Submit applications to Martha Gabehart, Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns, 900 SW Jackson, Suite 100, Topeka KS 66612 or email to [email protected].

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This message is from The Whole Person center for independent living in the Kansas City area.

Adaptive athletes... this one is for you! 

This summer, Kansas City will be having its first-ever KC Ultimate Games!

The 2024 KC Ultimate Games provides children and adults with disabilities an opportunity to compete with individuals with similar disabilities.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS 

Inaugural KC Ultimate Games

June 13th - 16th, 2024

Basehor-Linwood High School

Over the years, our Adaptive Sports Program has grown significantly, with both a variety of sports and athletes. We're ready to take it to the next level with competitions for everyone.

Get the full details [ [link removed] ]

Athletes will be competing in the following sports:

Adaptive Cycling 5K
Boccia
Para Powerlifting

Are you ready to conquer the challenge?!

Limited spots available - secure yours now [ [link removed] ]!

Interested in volunteering and helping us during the event? Sign up here [ [link removed] ]!

“Being a part of adaptive sports means being a part of a special community. In which, no matter what disability, you are seen, heard, valued—and more importantly, you can PLAY! It's that competitive spirit in which I think we all thrive. That and through community, we hope to bring that to more and more people,” 
- Kate Hwang, TWP Adaptive Sports Manager

This year, we were lucky to join Move United as a member of their influential organization. Move United is an organization that uses sports to push what’s possible so everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to sports and recreation in their community.

We are grateful for their support, and we’re ready to continue to push the boundaries of adaptive sports in Kansas City.

KC Ultimate Games is just the beginning.

Thank you,
The Whole Person

For any questions, please reach out to [email protected].

The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability. Learn more at thewholeperson.org.

View this email online [ [link removed] ].

3710 Main Street | Kansas City, MO 64111 US

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Job Vacancy Announcements

The Intrust Bank job vacancy listing is attached below. 

Blue Cross/Blue Shield has posted more job vacancy announcements on their website [ [link removed] ]. 

The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) has a job opening for an Access Specialist to support their community Services Unit. 

The Access Specialist provides technical assistance to individuals seeking information on disability laws and architectural access codes. This involves conducting research and providing guidance through in-person site visits, telephone, email, and written correspondence. This position also organizes and conducts training sessions on disability laws to increase awareness and understanding.

The MOD office currently works on a hybrid schedule, with staff working in the office two days per week and remotely three days.

Annual Salary: $61,195.94 – $63,050.78
Full-Time with Full Benefits Package

Learn more and apply here [ [link removed] ]. 

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This message is from the Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy (KYEA).

Transform Your Coffee Routine into a Lifeline!

We're excited to share a meaningful way for you to make a difference in the lives of youth with disabilities—by redirecting the cost of your weekly coffee indulgence into a beacon of hope!

For as little as $10 a month, the price of a cup of coffee, you can join our Monthly Giving Program through PayPal and help save lives. This small gesture has the power to turn routine into remarkable change.

Our PayPal Link [ [link removed] ]

Your monthly donation is more than just a contribution; it's a lifeline that extends far beyond monetary value. It supports vital community outreach efforts, empowering presentations to youth about employment opportunities, and fosters disability pride among those we serve.

Be sure to click the box next to Make This a Monthly Donation to ensure it is set up as a monthly payment.

Imagine the impact of your generosity:

• A youth with disabilities discovers new employment possibilities.
• A community learns to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
• Lives are changed as disability pride grows stronger.

Setting up your monthly donation is easy and secure with PayPal. Just a few clicks can turn your coffee routine into a powerful force for good.

Let’s brew a stronger community together! Join our Monthly Giving Program today and help us create a world where every youth with disabilities feels valued, empowered, and equipped to pursue their dreams.

Our PayPal Link [ [link removed] ]

Thank you for your generosity and for believing in our cause. We can make a difference, one cup of coffee at a time.

Sincerely,

Shannon Kennedy
Executive Director
[email protected]
785-380-8165 - direct dial

P.S. We so appreciate your support. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or want to learn more about our programs.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people with disabilities.

Connect with us

Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy | 2220 SE 29th St., Suite B, Topeka, KS 66605

 

 

 

 

 

 


* 2024 Michael Lechner Award Request for Nominations.pdf [ [link removed] ]
* Job Openings for INTRUST Bank 4.2.2024.pdf [ [link removed] ]

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